I took a series of Western Meadowlark photos three mornings ago at Farmington Bay WMA while the sun was shining. Good lighting conditions have been almost rare here in northern Utah so far this month so I was happy to have it and birds in my viewfinder at the same time.
Western Meadowlark singing on a February morning – Nikon D500, f7.1, 1/3200, ISO 400, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
Additionally, what thrilled me was that the Western Meadowlarks were singing and that I felt like I was hearing a preview to the sounds of spring in northern Utah. The clear flute-like whistles and warbles of the meadowlarks over the marsh reminded me that in just a few weeks the temperatures will be warmer, the days will be longer, and that soon I will be seeing and hopefully photographing more birds.
The recording I linked to above also has a Vesper Sparrow singing in it. I can hardly wait to see and hear them again.
Adult Western Meadowlark in the marsh at Farmington Bay – Nikon D500, f7.1, 1/4000, ISO 400, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
Western Meadowlarks are year round residents in northern Utah although I feel I should note that I do see fewer of them during the winter than I do the rest of the year. During the winter these meadowlarks are quieter than they are during spring and summer. In winter I typically hear them call but don’t hear them singing much at all. As spring approaches and the days grow longer they start to sing on sunny winter days. It is part of their seasonal cycle.
Listening to the Western Meadowlarks sing truly lifted my spirits. I’m looking forward to longer days, warmer temps, and all of the birds that are heading my way.
Life is good.
Mia
Click here to view more of my Western Meadowlark photos plus facts and information about this species.
What great shots! Meadowlarks are such beautiful birds and one of the few I could recognize as a kid. The detail you captured is just amazing. Thanks Mia
Beautiful species!
Love, love, love meadowlarks….THANKS for posting!
Beautiful, beautiful splashes of singing sunshine.
I had one singing in my yard a week ago, or so I thought. It was a starling.
Lovely photos, I look forward to them singing on the tops of sage soon.
The meadowlark’s song was the first we kids were taught to recognize, back in the 60’s in Colorado. To me it sounds like “Wel-come TO your home! Wel-come TO your home!”.